Speedy winger’s transfer to the north west could ultimately cost the club as much as £24m.
New Manchester City signing Jesus Navas has revealed that he turned down the opportunity to join Spanish giants Real Madrid in order to sign for the mega-rich Premier League club, reports the Daily Mirror.
The coveted Spain international agreed to move to Eastlands this week in a deal worth an initial £17 million, and so becoming new City head coach Manuel Pellegrini’s first signing since the Chilean replaced the recently departed City boss Roberto Mancini in the north west.
Navas, 27, had been with Sevilla for his entire career, featuring in 388 matches for the club in all competitions, and registering an impressive 34 goals and 77 assists along the way, including 23 strikes and 60 assists in 280 Liga matches.
And it was those kind of eye-catching numbers which led to both City, and now reportedly also los Blancos, going head to head for the exciting wide man this summer, with the top-flight giants emerging as winners.
“We’ve been talking with Manchester City for four months,” said Navas.
“The decision is taken.There had been rumours [about Madrid] but Manchester City were in from the start and I had decided some time ago.
“It’s a good project and it was the moment to make the step.
“The Premier League is a competition where the football is very fast.
“I’m really looking forward to it. Manchester City are making a great team.
“I’m going from Sevilla, which is a very nice place, and I’m going to a great club in England.
“It was my choice. I’m very happy with the decision.
“I wanted to continue growing there and they’ve put a lot of faith in me and I want to continue doing well there. It’s difficult because I’ve spent many years enjoying playing in front of these fans.
“But I’ve made my decision and I wanted to go there. It’s a good step for me and I never had any hesitation.
“I want to thank the Sevilla fans and the club for all that they’ve given me.”
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